Bright Christmas trees, decorative holly and even mistletoe aren’t the only green holiday decorations. This year Avila is going green for the holidays with LED Christmas lights and other energy saving gifts to the university.

With the new J-HOP comes new holiday decorations. Avila made the decision to purchase LED (light-emitting-diode) Christmas lights to brighten up Avila’s new “front door.”

“We have about 20 strands of 50 bulbs and another 15 1strands of 100 bulbs,” said Chris Rocco, building services technician. “Compared to traditional Christmas lighting, LED lights uses 80% less electricity and save money in energy bills.”

An average 50 bulb strand costs only 14 cents per season to operate and LED lights also save money in replacement costs, thus reducing the amount of trash put into landfills. LED lights can even achieve more colors and complex effects than traditional lights. As Avila’s traditional lights burn out, the university will replace with LED lights.

Avila has also installed two new energy-saving boilers. One boiler supports Carondelet, Hodes Center and Marian Center. The other supports Ridgeway Hall. These boilers will reduce energy costs and pay for themselves in just a few years.

Another way Avila is staying green this holiday season can be found in the Office of Marketing & Communication. The OMC tries to print on recycled paper when possible, with the President’s Christmas card printed on 100% recycle paper this year.

With exciting lighting, new boilers and recycled paper, Avila really is green for the holidays.

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Avila University is a private, co-educational, values-based liberal arts institution founded by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, offering undergraduate, graduate, and adult degree programs. Avila University is located at 119th and Wornall Rd in southwest suburban Kansas City, Mo.